Ford · Known Issues

2002 Ford Thunderbird Problems: 3 Known Issues

2002 model year · 190+ owner reports · Updated August 2026

According to Au7o's analysis of 190+ owner reports, the 2002 Ford Thunderbird has 3 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. The most commonly reported issue is Retro Thunderbird Convertible Top and Hardtop Water Leaks with 190 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $100 to $1,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Ford Thunderbird problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 190+ owner reports, the 2002 Ford Thunderbird has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Retro Thunderbird Convertible Top and Hardtop Water Leaks, Side Window Regulator Failure, Convertible Top Hydraulic System Failure. None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.

Is the Ford Thunderbird reliable?

The 2002 Ford Thunderbird has 3 known issues documented across 190+ owner reports. No issues are rated critical, suggesting generally good reliability. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Ford Thunderbird problems?

Repair costs for known Ford Thunderbird issues range from $100 to $1,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2002-2005 Ford Thunderbird Retro Thunderbird Convertible Top and Hardtop Water Leaks?

The 2002-2005 retro Thunderbird's removable hardtop and convertible soft top develop water leaks at the window seals and header weatherstripping. Water enters the cabin during rain and car washes, pooling in the footwells and damaging electronics. Repairs typically run $100-$500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2002-2005 Ford Thunderbird Side Window Regulator Failure?

The frameless door window regulators fail, causing the windows to drop into the door or bind when raising. The windows must seal tightly since there is no door frame, making this a security and weather issue. Repairs typically run $200-$450. Severity: medium.

What is the 2002-2005 Ford Thunderbird Convertible Top Hydraulic System Failure?

The hydraulic system for the power convertible top develops leaks in the cylinders, lines, or pump. The top may stop mid-cycle or refuse to operate. Hydraulic fluid leaks onto the trunk area. Repairs typically run $300-$1,500. Severity: medium.

2002 Ford Thunderbird Problems: 3 Known Issues

All 3 Known Issues

2002-2005 Ford Thunderbird: Retro Thunderbird Convertible Top and Hardtop Water Leaks#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

Research This Issue

2002-2005 Ford Thunderbird: Side Window Regulator Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

Research This Issue

2002-2005 Ford Thunderbird: Convertible Top Hydraulic System Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

Research This Issue

Other Ford Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Ford Thunderbird problems?

Is the Ford Thunderbird reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Ford Thunderbird problems?

What is the 2002-2005 Ford Thunderbird Retro Thunderbird Convertible Top and Hardtop Water Leaks?

What is the 2002-2005 Ford Thunderbird Side Window Regulator Failure?

What is the 2002-2005 Ford Thunderbird Convertible Top Hydraulic System Failure?